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Bahrain Fort Museum: A Portal to the Past

Discover 4,000 years of history at the Bahrain Fort Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Bahrain's rich cultural heritage.

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The Bahrain Fort Museum, an integral part of the Qal'at al-Bahrain UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an immersive journey through Bahrain's captivating past, spanning over 4,000 years. Located on the northern coast, approximately 4 kilometers from Manama, the museum showcases five distinct historical periods through meticulously preserved artifacts.

A brief summary to Bahrain Fort Museum

  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide to enhance your understanding of the site's history.
  • Explore the adjacent Bahrain Fort for a complete historical experience.
  • Check the museum's website for upcoming cultural events, lectures, and workshops.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, the most economical way to reach the Bahrain Fort Museum is by bus. Head to the Manama bus station and board bus number 23 towards Al Qalah. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the Karbabad bus stop, which is the closest stop to the museum. From there, it's a 500-700 meter walk towards the fort. A single bus ticket costs 0.300 BHD. You can pay with exact change or use a GO Card. A GO Card can be purchased and topped up at the bus terminal for 0.500 BHD. With the GO Card, each trip will cost 0.275 BHD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bahrain. From Manama, a taxi ride to the Bahrain Fort Museum takes approximately 10 minutes. The fare is calculated based on a metered rate, with the starting price at 2.0 BHD and an additional 1.0 BHD per kilometer. A 5km ride would cost about 7 BHD. Ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.

Unlock the Best of Bahrain Fort Museum

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Discover more about Bahrain Fort Museum

The Bahrain Fort Museum is more than just a repository of ancient artifacts; it's a portal that transports visitors through millennia of Bahrain's history. Opened in 2008, the museum stands as a modern architectural marvel, seamlessly blending with the ancient Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The museum's location on the northern coast provides a picturesque setting, with the sea and lush greenery offering a tranquil escape. Inside, the museum's collection showcases five different historical periods, arranged chronologically within separate galleries. These exhibits trace Bahrain's rich heritage from the Dilmun civilization of the third millennium BCE to the Portuguese period. Highlights include cuneiform inscriptions, Dilmun seals, Greek coins, and stone statues. The pottery collection reflects Bahrain's historical links with China, India, and Persia during the Islamic period, while artifacts like jewelry and musical instruments represent the Portuguese era. The museum comprises two main buildings: one houses galleries of artifacts and a children's education hall, while the other features a lecture hall. The museum hosts many cultural events, including lectures, musical and film screenings, reading sessions, workshops, and children's programs, making it one of Bahrain's leading cultural destinations. After exploring the exhibits, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the site and the sea from the fort's pathway or relax at the stylish café with indoor and outdoor seating.

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